BBQ cook times for 3cm thick steak. Grill at 230-260°C (450-500°F). Times for every doneness level. Step-by-step guide.
By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026
Photo by Mohamed Olwy on Pexels
3cm Steak: Grill at 230-260°C (450-500°F) for 4-5 min/side per side (medium).
The sweet spot for most BBQ steaks. Thick enough for a proper sear with a pink centre. The most forgiving thickness for home cooks.
| Doneness | Time Per Side |
|---|---|
| Rare | 3-3.5 min/side |
| Medium-Rare | 3.5-4 min/side |
| Medium | 4-5 min/side |
| Medium-Well | 5-6 min/side |
| Well Done | 6-7 min/side |
Grill temperature: 230-260°C (450-500°F)
Thickness is the single most important factor in determining cook time on the BBQ. A flat 300g steak that's 1cm thick cooks in 4 minutes total. A 300g steak that's 4cm thick needs 12+ minutes. Same weight, completely different cook times.
Heat travels from the surface inward. The thicker the cut, the longer it takes for the centre to reach your target temperature. This is why a meat thermometer is essential — time is just a guide.
Get precise cooking times for any meat, cut, and method. Never over-cook or under-cook your BBQ again.
Open CalculatorHow long to cook a 3cm steak?
A 3cm thick steak takes approximately 3-3.5 min/side per side for rare at 230-260°C (450-500°F). Always use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
What temperature should I grill a 3cm steak?
Grill a 3cm steak at 230-260°C (450-500°F). The sweet spot for most BBQ steaks.
Does thickness affect cook time more than weight?
Yes. Thickness is the primary factor in determining cook time on the BBQ. Heat travels from the surface inward, so a thicker cut takes proportionally longer to cook through regardless of its total weight.
Should I use direct or indirect heat for 3cm steak?
At 3cm thickness, direct heat is fine. The cut is thin enough to cook through before the outside burns.